The Power of Smile ™ Oral Health Library

Stay up to date on the current topics and trends in dentistry. Articles are updated regularly on topics that discuss the importance of oral health as it relates to overall health from our team of experts.






Meet The Clinicians



Learn about current topics and trends in dentistry and the importance of oral health as it relates to overall health from our team of experts.



Dr. Eileen Crespo, MD

Eileen Crespo, MD

Dr. Eileen Crespo is the Vice President of Medical Services at Delta Dental of Minnesota. Dr. Crespo is a practicing pediatrician of 20 years. She is currently a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and a member of the Board of Directors at Children’s Dental Service and the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Dr. R. Bruce Templeton, DMD

R. Bruce Templeton, DMD

Dr. Bruce Templeton is an oral surgeon and has served both on the board and as a medical consultant for Delta Dental of Minnesota since 2011. Dr. Templeton has served as both the Chief of Dentistry and Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, and as a clinical professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.








Recent Articles




March 8th, 2023

What do my teeth tell me about my health?

We often mention the impact of oral health on overall health, so let’s take a look at the ways signs or symptoms in the mouth can point to other greater health concerns.

February 21st, 2023

How do I know if I have a cavity?

If you have never had a cavity before, you may be unsure what the experience will be like. Discoloration on your tooth, pain or sensitivity can all be signs that you might have developed a cavity. Your dentist can help you with all of these. See more inside.

February 7th, 2023

Taste buds grow up, too

How and why do our taste buds change as we age? Even the pickiest eaters can grow up to enjoy a variety of foods. How does this happen? Find an explanation of the process here.

January 17th, 2023

Canker and cold sores

In cold and flu season, you might experience canker or cold sores more often. What are these sores and what can cause them? Find out more inside.

January 10th, 2023

Why do hot and cold hurt my teeth?

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, eating or drinking things that are very hot or very cold can cause discomfort and even pain.

December 12th, 2022

Chewing gum: a sticky subject

Don't get stuck with bad breath or cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth - try chewing some sugar-free gum! See our recommendations for choosing gum that supports your oral health and its possible benefits in this post.

November 26th, 2022

TMJ Awareness Month

November is TMJ Awareness Month. Explore some of the causes, symptoms and possibly solutions in this blog. Be sure to seek help from your doctor or dentist if you experience TMJ pain.

November 21st, 2022

Thanksgiving cravings to make you smile

Even when enjoying festive foods and drinks, you can still care for your oral health. Here are some ideas for creating a more healthy plate this Thanksgiving.

November 1st, 2022

Mouthwash – ask a dentist!

We ask questions around a specific dental health practice or product and a dentist answers. The topic: mouthwash

October 20th, 2022

Scare away cavities this Halloween

Enjoy the costumes, jack-o-lanterns, tricks and treats this Halloween, but scare away cavities with our fang-tastic oral health tips!

October 11th, 2022

What's new in dentistry?

Even with 10,000 years of history, the practice of dentistry is still evolving as new technology and methods are proven effective in the field. Here are a few big updates you may or may not have experienced at your last dental visit.

September 20th, 2022

Mental health & your smile - the connection

You may be aware of the strong connection between your oral health and your overall health, but have you considered that the same connection exists between mental health and your oral health?